Threat of fire closes parts of Lincoln forest

RUIDOSO, N.M. (AP)  Extremely dry conditions and the threat of wildfires have prompted the closure of two areas in the Lincoln National Forest.

Forest officials will close the Smokey Bear Ranger District near Ruidoso and the Sacramento Ranger District near Cloudcroft beginning Wednesday.

The southern New Mexico forest is the latest to announce closures. Authorities have closed most parts of the Cibola National Forest, the Santa Fe National Forest, Bandelier National Monument, Hyde Memorial State Park near Santa Fe, Fenton Lake Park near Jemez Springs and Morphy Lake State Park near Mora.

The closures will continue at least until Memorial Day weekend, when the forest supervisor will review the situation and possibly make changes.

The closures will not affect federal and state highways that lead to mountain communities, access to private property and the villages of Cloudcroft, Ruidoso, Mayhill, Sacramento, Weed, Timberon or any outlying areas.

"Business will be as usual," said Cloudcroft Mayor Dave Venable. "We want to inform those who have made or contemplate making travel plans for New Mexico and our southern communities that our stores, restaurants, lodging and other services are available and will be open."

Also, the concessionaire campgrounds and the Sunspot Astronomy and Visitors Center in the Sacramento District will remain open.